key term - Subordinating conjunctions

Definition

Subordinating conjunctions are words that connect an independent clause with one or more dependent clauses, establishing a relationship between them. They help indicate the nature of the relationship, such as cause, time, condition, or contrast, allowing for more complex and nuanced sentence structures. By using these conjunctions, writers can create sentences that convey detailed meanings and connect ideas effectively.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Common subordinating conjunctions include 'although,' 'because,' 'since,' 'if,' and 'when.'
2. Using subordinating conjunctions allows for the creation of complex sentences that can convey relationships such as time, reason, or condition.
3. When a dependent clause comes before an independent clause in a sentence, it is often followed by a comma.
4. Subordinating conjunctions can change the emphasis of a sentence by highlighting one idea over another.
5. Correct use of subordinating conjunctions enhances the clarity and sophistication of writing by linking ideas smoothly.

Review Questions

• How do subordinating conjunctions function to connect ideas within a sentence?
  • Subordinating conjunctions connect independent clauses with dependent clauses, creating a relationship between the two parts. For example, in the sentence 'Although it was raining, we went for a walk,' the conjunction 'although' indicates that the second part depends on the first part for context. This connection helps clarify the meaning of the entire sentence and shows how the ideas relate to each other.
• What is the effect of placing a dependent clause at the beginning of a sentence when using subordinating conjunctions?
  • When a dependent clause is placed at the beginning of a sentence with a subordinating conjunction, it sets up the context for the main idea that follows. This structure often requires a comma to separate the two clauses, which helps enhance readability. For instance, starting with 'If it snows tomorrow,' draws attention to the condition before stating what will happen next. This can make the writing feel more engaging and emphasize specific relationships between ideas.
• Evaluate how subordinating conjunctions contribute to the overall complexity and clarity of written communication.
  • Subordinating conjunctions significantly enhance written communication by allowing for complex sentences that convey detailed relationships among ideas. They enable writers to express cause and effect, conditions, contrasts, and various temporal relationships succinctly. This complexity not only clarifies meanings but also adds depth to the writing. By effectively using subordinating conjunctions, writers can guide readers through their arguments or narratives more smoothly, ensuring that connections between thoughts are clear and coherent.

Related terms

independent clause:

A group of words that contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought, capable of standing alone as a sentence.

dependent clause:

A group of words that contains a subject and a verb but does not express a complete thought, relying on an independent clause for its meaning.

coordinating conjunctions: Words that connect words, phrases, or independent clauses of equal rank, such as 'and,' 'but,' and 'or.'